Dreaming of places to see in Rome can seem inspiring. Caesar and Marc Antony walked its streets and the heart of the Roman Catholic world still remains at its core. Many of history's most enduring stories have played out within its confines. A Roman vacation can be unlike anything else. With ancient history, art and architecture found at almost every turn, the biggest problem for many is deciding what to see and do when a trip to Rome is on tap. The fact of the matter is there are so many places to see in Rome that hitting them all can be difficult. Adding to that are the numerous relatively close destinations that also played a large role in the history of art, architecture and even warfare. These, too, can have a strong allure for travelers who want to see the many fine points Italy has to offer.

With a history that dates back centuries, Rome was the seat of power in the Western World for hundreds of years. The Roman Empire itself pre-dates Christianity, with legionnaires making their presence known from Egypt to the British Isles. So it tends to make a little sense that a trip to this ancient city will be packed with some very interesting and enduring sights. Nearby, visitors to Rome will also find such destinations as Florence, Pompeii and Venice, all considered by many a tourist worth the side trip.

What to Expect On a Roman Trip

Those who choose to visit Rome and its nearby destinations will find this part of Europe is home to some major history. From the seat of the Roman Empire to the waters of Venice, Italian tourism is loaded with things to do and places to see.

While ancient ruins, restored cathedrals, cobblestone streets and more all speak to the past, visitors to these regions will also find very modernized cities. Time doesn't seem to have forgotten this part of the world. Rather, time marched on and built up around the relics of the past, which still play a very prominent role in the landscape of these famous cities.

While in Rome …

Rome itself is home to some of the most enduring ancient sites in the world. At its heart also lies the capital of Christendom, Vatican City. Rome proper and the Vatican both contain a bevy of places to see. The draws range from purely architectural by nature to historic locations where some of the world's most famous people worked, lived, debated and died.

Rome's art, architecture and appearance has been heavily influenced by the ages. Some of the flavor of ancient times remains, existing alongside Renaissance sites, Baroque and even modern-era construction. Some of the most popular spots to see on a Roman vacation include:

Basilica di San Giovanni

This ancient cathedral is said to have been founded by Constantine himself in the 4th century. The church has been rebuilt a few times, but remains a major site in the Roman landscape.

The Colosseum

Many tourists say this is the reason that drove them to visit Rome. This ancient ruin stood witness to some of history's most interesting moments.

It was here that gladiators fought, Christians died, animals were slaughtered and the rough, raw and often brutal reputation of the Roman Empire was illustrated. The Colosseum was the site of ancient games, victory parades, speeches and more. Although considered a ruin, the Colosseum remains a very large figure on the Roman landscape and it one that many tourists flock to see.

The Pantheon

This ancient ruin is considered by many to be one of the area's most well-preserved relics from the past. The "temple of all gods," as it is called by some was constructed in the years before Christ, but has been added on to through the years.

The Forum

The ruins of this ancient government center remain a part of Rome's fabric today. The area has a history that dates back more than 900 years. It is said to have been alive with activity during the empire's peak, but was reported to have gone into decline in the medieval period.

Sistine Chapel

Many artistic and religious travelers put the chapel high on their list of must-see places in Rome. Michelangelo's famous ceilings draw visitors from all over the world as does the architecture in this famous and enduring chapel.

Vatican City

The seat of the Roman Catholic world is home to museums, chapels and more. It remains the home of the Pope and its libraries are considered by many to be the best in the world for ancient and medieval historical information.

Trevi Fountain

This fountain has a long and storied history that goes back hundreds of years and includes Bernini and Pope Urban VIII. The fountain still stands, welcoming visitors and residents alike.

St. Peter's Basilica

Located in Vatican City, this ancient cathedral was initially constructed at Constantine's request. This historic church is said to contain relics of St. Peter himself and is also the burial ground for many popes.

The sights of the ancient world, medieval period and beyond remain alive and well in Rome today. Here visitors are likely to see an incredible mingling of periods. Other high points many travelers refuse to miss include catacombs, Capitoline Hill, a host of historic churches, ruins and more.

In the midst of all the ancient history, aqueducts and fountains, visitors will also find that Rome remains a bustling city today. Modernization has not been lost on Rome, which is home also to a variety of hotels, restaurants, nightclubs and more.

With a history that dates back to the years before Christ, Rome remains today in many visitors' minds a place that speaks to the past.

Places To See Outside Of Rome

While they might require additional transportation to see, many who visit Rome choose to tour a few other destinations on their trips. Some of the more popular stops outside of Rome include:

Florence

This city is famous for its art and architecture. It was lorded over by the famous Medici family and is often considered the heart of the Italian Renaissance. The city was once home to Dante, was the original home of Michelangelo David and more.

Those who travel to see art and architecture often find the allure of Florence too hard to resist if Rome is the main destination. The city's famous churches, museums and more are major draws for many a tourist.

Pompeii

This ancient Roman city is famous for its ruins. The city was destroyed during an eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Venice

This city of canals is famous for its art, architecture and waterway boulevards. It is a favorite destination for many and considered a top side trip for Roman visitors.

Travel to other parts of Italy that are considered close to Rome will vary. Some people hire cars, others prefer to ride the rails. There are many other cities, towns and bergs within easy reach of Rome, as well.

With art, architecture, history and more all available for the exploring, those who visit Rome often find themselves hard-pressed to run out of things to see and do. The places to see in Rome range from the incredibly historic to the deeply religious.

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